Multi-Mode Personal Transportation And Delivery Devices And Methods Of Use

ABSTRACT

Multi-mode personal transportation and delivery devices and methods of use are disclosed herein. A device can include a communications interface, the communications interface configured to provide vehicle-to-everything communications, a device controller comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing instructions, the processor executing the instructions to: receive a first message from a service provider that the transportation device is to relocate to a location based on user demand; and activate a redistribution mode to cause the transportation device to autonomously navigate to the location.

BACKGROUND

Micro-mobility device operators employ juicers (e.g., individuals) tocollect and charge batteries of shared mobility devices after use.Juicers can also redistribute shared mobility devices to areas with highdemand. The cost of human labor is high and the methods of collectingdevices are less than ideal. The process of charging a battery istime-consuming and the complete manual labor processes are not efficientor scientific.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description is set forth regarding the accompanyingdrawings. The use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar oridentical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and/orcomponents other than those illustrated in the drawings, and someelements and/or components may not be present in various embodiments.Elements and/or components in the figures are not necessarily drawn toscale. Throughout this disclosure, depending on the context, singularand plural terminology may be used interchangeably.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an example architecture where the systems andmethod of the present disclosure may be practiced.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example use case where a transportation device iscommunicating with a transportation vehicle during redistribution.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example use case where a transportation device iscommunicating with an IoT enabled infrastructure element duringlogistical package delivery.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example use case where a transportation deviceautonomously engages with a charging station/pad.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates example routines for a transportationdevice.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an example method of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of another example method of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Overview

The present disclosure pertains to multi-mode transportation devicesthat are capable of performing autonomous delivery tasks andtransporting users. An example transportation device can beautomatically redistributed to areas in a location where user demand ishigh. When longer travel distances are required, the transportationdevice can communicate with transportation infrastructure and leveragetransportation networks (for example, buses) to enable extendedmigrations to a destination location.

The transportation device can utilize V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything)communications when operating autonomously and interacting with IoT(internet of things) enabled elements. Example IoT objects can include,but are not limited to, sensors, devices, access points, beacons and thelike which may be integrated into infrastructure such as officebuildings, residential buildings, businesses, lights, etc. Thetransportation device can operate in various modes such asredistribution mode, delivery mode, charging mode, power-saving mode,and the like. In a redistribution mode the transportation device maytravel to a new location if scooter distribution is desired based ondemand or usage. In a delivery mode, the transportation device may enterbuildings and communicating with security systems and elevators. Thetransportation device may utilize authorization and/or accesscredentials to enter private areas. The transportation device may becapable of self-parking and self-charging on sidewalks, such asdesignated areas with a charging cord or charging pad, when in acharging mode.

If the transportation device senses its state-of-charge (SoC), forexample, a battery of the transportation device falls below a SoCthreshold, then the transportation device may automatically transportitself to a wireless charging pad to charge. The transportation devicemay be capable of acting as an assistant, such as a guide for the blind,elderly, impaired and so forth to help them cross busy streets or to aspecified location. In one example, a transportation device can be usedto power a wheelchair up a hill or cross a street in a timely and safemanner. The road conditions that present potential risks to thetransportation device may be identified by the transportation deviceusing data collected real-time from traffic and city infrastructures,other transportation devices, vehicles, etc.

The frame of the transportation device can include a swappable capsulebox that can be detached when the transportation device is not in alogistic mode. A capsule box can include any container that may beassociated with the transportation device. The capsule box can beconfigured to receive and retain items or objects. For example, thecapsule box can retain belongings of riders who are using thetransportation device. In another example, the capsule box can receiveand retain a package for delivery to a destination. A first user canload a package into the capsule box and the transportation device canautonomously deliver the package to a destination where the package isremoved from the capsule box by a second user (e.g., recipient). In oneexample, the first user can ride the transportation device to a deliverylocation and deliver the package. The delivery location could be awaypoint on the way to a terminal destination for the first user. In oneexample, the first user may drive the transportation device to a busstop (e.g., terminal destination). Along the way, the first user canstop at a delivery location and deliver the package to the second user.

In some instances, the transportation device can be configured as anautonomous delivery e-scooter. The transportation device can be adual-mode vehicle frame capable of riding and performing autonomousdelivery tasks. The transportation device can function as a shareableelectric micro-mobility device for short personal transportation arounda location. The transportation device can be switched to delivery modeto deliver objects such as packages or food, autonomously and on-demand.

Illustrative Embodiments

Turning now to the drawings, FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2 collectively depict anillustrative architecture 100 in which techniques and structures of thepresent disclosure may be implemented. The architecture 100 includes anexample operating environment 101 illustrating various use cases for amulti-mode transportation device (hereinafter device 102). The operatingenvironment 101 can include a charging station 103 where the device 102can recharge. The device 102 can function as an on-demand logisticservice 105, as an explorative epad 107, and as a pedestrian guide 109.These functions are in addition to the device 102 being configured foruse as a ride mobility service. Each of these use cases is described ingreater detail with reference to FIGS. 2-6 .

The architecture 100 can also include a service provider 104, an IoTinfrastructure element 106, a transportation vehicle 108, and a network112. Some or all of these components in the architecture 100 cancommunicate with one another using the network 112. The network 112 caninclude combinations of networks that enable the components in thearchitecture 100 to communicate with one another. The network 112 mayinclude any one or a combination of multiple different types ofnetworks, such as cellular, cable, the Internet, wireless networks, andother private and/or public networks. In some instances, the network 112may include cellular, Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi direct.

As noted above, the device 102 can switch between modes of operation,such as a transportation mode, a logistics mode, or a combinationthereof. The transportation mode involves scenarios where a rider isbeing transported by the device 102. In the logistics mode, the device102 is being used to deliver an object to a destination. The device 102can perform both of these modes of use when a rider is on the device 102and an object is being delivery through use of a container associatedwith the device 102.

In more detail, device 102 can include a frame 111 that integrates acapsule box (hereinafter container 113) that can be used to storeobjects for logistical transport. For example, the container 113 canstore the personal belongings of a rider. In another example, thecontainer 113 can be used to store objects, such as packages or lettersfor delivery. The container can include any enclosure that is configuredto receive and/or retain contents, such as rider belongings, packages,and the like. The container 113 can be shaped to fit into an opening ofthe frame 111. In this example, the container 113 fits into an openingthat is located centrally on the frame 111. In some instances, thecontainer 113 can be a complete enclosure with a top, a bottom, andsides. In another example, the container 113 can be a partial enclosurehaving sides and a bottom, with an open top. The container 113 can beconfigured to lock into place relative to the frame 111 to prevent thecontainer 113 from disassociating from the frame 111 during travel. Themechanism that locks the container 113 into position in the frame 113can be located on the container 113 or the frame.

In use, the container 113 can be removed from the frame 111 to allow auser to place and/or remove objects therefrom. The container 113 can beplaced back into the opening in the frame 111 for securement during useof the device 102. As noted above, a user can remove the container 113from the frame 111 and place a package therein. The container 113 can beplaced back into the opening of the frame 111. The device 102 can bedriven to a location where the user (or a different user) can remove thecontainer from the frame 111 and retrieve the package. The container 113can be placed back into the frame 111. The frame 111 can be associatedwith any means of conveyance such as wheels.

The device 102 may further comprise a controller 114 (mobility devicecontroller) and a power source 115 for powering an electric motor (notshown) to turn the wheels of the device 102. The power source 115 isalso utilized to operate other electrical components of the device 102.In some instances, the device 102 also comprises a communications module116, a camera 118, and a sensor platform 120. The controller 114 cancomprise a processor 122 and memory 124. The processor 122 can beconfigured to execute instructions stored in memory 124. In someexamples, the instructions are executed to perform any of the methodsdisclosed herein. When referring to operations performed by thecontroller 114, it will be understood that this includes the executionof instructions stored in memory 124 by the processor 122.

The sensor platform 120 can include various sensors such as cameras,LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensors, ultrasonic sensors,infrared sensors, and/or other sensors that can be used to enableautonomous operation of the device 102. The controller 114 includesinstructions stored in the memory 124 that enable the device 102 tooperate autonomously. For example, the instructions can includenavigation and/or mapping software. The controller 114 can obtainreal-time location signals (such as GPS) from the communications module116 and/or a dedicated location sensing component. Using sensor outputobtained from the sensor platform 120, the controller 114 can navigatethe device 102 from a current location to a destination using thereal-time location information and real-time sensor output.

In one example, the communications module 116 may include avehicle-to-everything (V2X or equivalent) module that allows thecontroller 114 to communicate with transportation infrastructure and/orIoT infrastructure elements over the network 112. The sensor platformcan include any sensors that enable the controller 114 to detect thepresence of a rider, a package, and/or the device's surroundings, suchas additional cameras, microphones, LIDAR or other imaging systems,Radio Frequency identification (RFID, radar, and ultrasonic—just to namea few. The camera 118 can be used to obtain images of the device'ssurroundings and perform image recognition to identify infrastructuresuch as buses, buildings, elevators, and so forth. Example use caseswill provide additional details regarding the capabilities of the device102.

In general, the controller 114 can cause the device 102 to enter apassenger-carrying mode when a user interacts with the transportationdevice and requests a ride. For example, a rider can request use of thedevice 102 through their mobile device (not shown). The request canroute through the service provider 104 for approval, in some instances.Other modes of operation of the device 102 are disclosed infra.

The service provider 104 can coordinate the actions and behaviors of aplurality of transportation devices. The service provider 104 can trackthe transportation devices across one or more locations and may reassigntransportation devices from one location to another, based on demand.For example, the service provider 104 can determine the demand for atransportation device in a designated location. That is, the serviceprovider 104 can receive requests for transportation services from usersat that location. When requests exceed (or are likely to exceed) thenumber of transportation devices available in a location, the serviceprovider 104 can determine there is an insufficient number oftransportation devices in the designated location for the demand.

The service provider 104 can transmit a message to a transportationdevice through a transportation infrastructure. For example, the serviceprovider 104 can transmit a request to the IoT infrastructure element106 that can be relayed to the device 102. The IoT infrastructureelement 106 can include an access point, repeater, or any othercommunications devices located in an area where transportation devicesoperate. The device 102 can communicate with the IoT infrastructureelement 106 to receive a message from the service provider 104.

In some instances, rather than relaying messages through the IoTinfrastructure elements or another element in the transportationinfrastructure, the service provider 104 can transmit a request directlyto the device 102 through a cellular connection. In general, the device102 and the service provider 104 can communicate through anyintermediary network in order to coordinate transportation and/ordelivery services.

In one example, the service provider 104 can transmit a message to thedevice 102 that the device 102 is to relocate to a designated location.For example, if the device 102 is located in one area of a city, theservice provider 104 can determine demand in a second area of the cityand request that the device 102 route itself to the second area. Totravel to the second area, the controller 114 can put the device 102into a redistribution mode. When in redistribution mode, the controller114 may ignore requests from users for ride services or packagedelivery.

In some instances, the second area may be outside a range distance ofthe device 102. For example, the device 102 may operate off a powersource that has a range distance of ten miles. When a distance betweenwhere the device 102 is currently located and where it has beenrequested to relocate would cause the device 102 the power source 115 ofthe device 102 to have a SoC that is at or below a threshold range, thecontroller 114 of the device 102 can determine that the designatedlocation is out of a range distance. In some instances, the serviceprovider 104 may make this determination based on calculated distancesand tracking of SoC for the device 102. That is, at any time, the device102 can report back its operational status to the service provider 104.By way of example, the controller 114 may be configured to maintain aSoC of at least thirty percent, but to be sure, the specifics of therange threshold may be tuned according to desired device operatingparameters.

To relocate the device 102, the service provider 104 may dispatch atransportation vehicle to a pick-location when the designated locationis beyond the range distance of the device 102. As illustrated in FIGS.1A, 1B, and 2 collectively, the service provider 104 may dispatch atransportation vehicle 108 such as a bus to a pickup location 126, suchas a bus stop. The service provider 104 can instruct the device 102 tonavigate to the pickup location 126. For example, the service provider104 can transmit GPS coordinates to the device 102 of the pickuplocation 126. The controller 114 can cause the device 102 toautonomously navigate to the pickup location 126. Thus, the controller114 can determine the device's current location and utilize navigationlogic to direct the device 102 autonomously.

When the device 102 meets the transportation vehicle 108 at the pickuplocation 126, the controller 114 can communicate with the transportationvehicle 108 over a short-range wireless connection to board thetransportation vehicle 108. In some instances, the device 102 can dockwith charging stations or pads located on the transportation vehicle108.

The transportation vehicle 108 can include a vehicle controller 200having a processor 202 and memory 204. The processor 202 can beconfigured to execute instructions stored in memory 204. Theinstructions are executed to perform any of the methods disclosedherein. When referring to operations performed by the vehicle controller200, it will be understood that this includes the execution ofinstructions stored in memory 204 by the processor 202. Thetransportation vehicle 108 can also include a communications interface206 and a sensor platform 208. The sensor platform 208 can include, forexample, cameras, location sensors, LIDAR, ultrasonic, radar, IR, and soforth. These sensors can be used to detect the presence, location, andmovement of human passengers and transportation devices both inside andoutside the transportation vehicle 108.

For example, the vehicle controller 200 can utilize the communicationsinterface 206 to transmit data over a short-range wireless connection212 to the device 102. The vehicle controller 200 can transmit messagesto the device 102 that instruct the device 102 as to where to go on thebus based on available space. That is, the transportation vehicle 108can include dedicated parking spaces for one or more devices, such asthe device 102. One or more of these dedicated parking spaces caninclude a charging interface 210 that allows the device 102 to rechargeitself as it is being transported to another location. Occupancy ofdevice spaces in the transportation vehicle 108 can be determined by thevehicle controller 200 of the transportation vehicle 108 detecting whena device is parked and charging.

While some embodiments contemplate the device 102 being transportedinside the transportation vehicle 108, the transportation vehicle 108can also have external docks or enclosures that can receivetransportation devices. These compartments can be located on a rear ofthe transportation vehicle 108, in some instances. Each compartment caninclude a charging station, such as the charging station disclosed withrespect to the embodiments of FIG. 4 .

In another example, the device 102 can request entry and transportationby the transportation vehicle 108 on an ad-hoc basis. That is, thedevice 102 can request to be repositioned by the transportation vehicle108 with or without orchestration from the service provider 104. In someinstances, the device 102 can share data with other transportationdevices that are within short-range wireless communication distance. Tobe sure, transportation devices can also communicate with one anotherover long-range wireless communications as well. In one example usecase, transportation devices can share repositioning data with oneanother and/or coordinate with one another to move to reposition into anarea with greater user demand.

The device 102 can determine when demand in a particular area hasdecreased. By way of example, the controller 114 can determine that norequests to use the device 102 have been received in a set period oftime. For example, if device 102 receives no user requests in thirtyminutes, the controller 114 can choose to reposition the device 102. Theperiod of time can vary according to operating parameters or learnedfrom historical data. The device 102 could also use camera information.For example, if the controller 114 does not detect potential ridersaround the device 102 for a period of time, the controller can choose toreposition the device 102 to a more populated area.

Thus, when demand in a particular area decreases, the device 102 canreturn to a home or base location. Again, based on distance, this mayinvolve using a transportation vehicle to return without over-depletingthe power supply of the device 102. When no transportation vehicles areavailable, the device 102 can intelligently plot a path back to its homelocation using waypoint charging, where the device 102 can performintermediate charging stops on the way back to its home location, orother another staging area.

In one use case, the controller 114 can determine that the designatedlocation is beyond a range distance and cause the device to autonomouslynavigate to a pick-up location. The range distance can be affected byvarious factors, which include, but are not limited to trafficinformation, batter state-of-charge, terrain (e.g., grade of roads)weather conditions, and other parameters. The controller 114 can gathersome or all of the data used in range distance calculations in real-timefrom sensors and/or from data obtained from third-party resourcesavailable through the network and/or the service provider. As notedherein, data can also be obtained from infrastructure elements, such asInternet-of-Things (IoT) infrastructure elements, examples of which aredisclosed infra.

For example, the controller 114 can compare its current location withthe designated location. The controller 114 can perform an estimatedpower usage calculation using a navigation path between the currentlocation and the designated location. The controller 114 can cause thedevice to autonomously navigate into a transportation vehicle at thepick-up location. The transportation vehicle 108 transports thetransportation device to a drop-off location that is in proximity to thedesignated location. While this example contemplates the controller 114making determinations of range distance for the device 102, the serviceprovider 104 can also make such determinations when coordinating theactions of the device 102.

In another example use case, the device 102 can be configured to monitorfor users exiting the transportation vehicle 108. For example, thedevice 102 can utilize sensor output of the sensor platform 120, and/orimages obtained from the camera 118 to detect user presence. The device102 can position itself or approach users exiting the transportationvehicle 108, who may need or have requested point-to-point mobilityservices provided by the device 102. Referring now to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and3 , when the device 102 is not being used as a ride service or is notbeing repositioned to another location, the device 102 can be utilizedto transport objects. For example, the service provider 104 or a usercan request use of the device 102 to transport an object, such as apackage or a letter. In one example, a user can request package deliveryusing a mobile device, such as a Smartphone (or another equivalentdevice). The user can specify a delivery location for the package.

In one example, the service provider 104 can determine a lack of demandfor the device 102 for passenger use and transmit a message to thedevice 102 that comprises a request to deliver an object to a deliverylocation. The controller 114 of the device 102 can activate a deliverymode to allow the device to autonomously navigate to the deliverylocation. In another example, the device 102 can switch to delivery modewhen the device 102 has not received a request for a ride within apredetermined period of time.

As noted above, the device 102 can incorporate the container 113 thatcan receive the package. Once the package is secure, the device 102 cannavigate to a delivery location. In FIG. 3 , the delivery location maybe within a building that includes various IoT infrastructure elements.For example, the device 102 can communicate with an IoT-enabled elevator128 to obtain access to a floor or residence.

The IoT-enabled elevator 128 can include an elevator controller 300having a processor 302 and memory 304. The processor 302 can beconfigured to execute instructions stored in memory 304. Theinstructions are executed to perform any of the methods disclosedherein. When referring to operations performed by the elevatorcontroller 300, it will be understood that this includes the executionof instructions stored in memory 304 by the processor 302. TheIoT-enabled elevator 128 can also include a communications module 306and a sensor platform 308. The sensor platform 308 can include, forexample, cameras, location sensors, LIDAR, ultrasonic, radar, IR, and soforth.

The device 102 can check in when entering the building by transmitting amessage to the elevator controller 300. The elevator controller 300 canrespond by authenticating and/or authorizing the device 102 to enter thebuilding for package delivery (or other function(s)). In some instances,the elevator controller 300 can authenticate and/or authorize the device102 through an infrastructure security system 310. The infrastructuresecurity system 310 can maintain data for users and/or devices that havebeen permitted access to the building. In some instances, the serviceprovider 104 can coordinate authorization for the device 102 prior tothe device arriving at the building.

If authorized, the elevator controller 300 can transmit a floorplan ormap of the building to the device 102. The device 102 can utilize thismap to autonomously navigate to the desired destination inside thebuilding.

In some instances, when the delivery location is secure or private, theservice provider 104 (or user) can input authentication/authorizationcredentials that allow the device 102 to access the secure/private area.In sum, the service provider 104 can transmit authentication credentialsto the device. The device can then provide the authenticationcredentials to an Internet-of-Things (IoT) infrastructure element togain access to a secure or private location during delivery of anobject, such as a package.

Using the example above, the controller 114 of the device 102 cantransmit authentication credentials to the elevator controller 300 ofthe IoT enabled elevator 128, allowing the device 102 to access arestricted residential floor to deliver a package. Again, the controller114 can communicate with the elevator controller 300 of the IoT-enabledelevator 128 using the communications module 116, which uses V2Xcommunications.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 4 collectively, the controller 114can manage the SoC of the power source 115. The controller 114 cancompare the SoC of the power source to a SoC threshold. When the SoC isat or below a SoC threshold, the controller 114 can cause the device toactivate a charging mode. The controller 114 can autonomously navigatethe device 102 to the charging station 103 for recharging. When in thecharging mode, the controller 114 of the device 102 can identify thenearest (or most convenient depending on current use) charging locationand cause the device to autonomously navigate to that charging locationand dock with the charging location.

In FIG. 4 , if the destination of a user operating the device 102 is ata charging station 103, then the user may go inside a retail store orrestaurant while the transportation device 102 charges. A chargingstation 103 may be located inside a store or building, or on a sidewalk,such as illustrated in FIG. 4 . In some instances, the charging station103 may be an IoT enabled infrastructure element.

The charging station 103 can include a station controller 400 having aprocessor 402 and memory 404. The processor 402 can be configured toexecute instructions stored in memory 404. The instructions are executedto perform any of the methods disclosed herein. When referring tooperations performed by the station controller 400, it will beunderstood that this includes the execution of instructions stored inmemory 404 by the processor 402. The charging station 103 can alsoinclude a communications interface 406. These sensors can be used todetect the presence, location, and charging status transportationdevices.

The charging station 103 can include a charging interface 408 which caninclude a wired electrical connection or outlet. The device 102 can beplugged into the charging interface 408 through a cable. In anotherexample, the charging interface 408 can include a wireless or inductivecharging element that transfers electrical energy to a correspondinginductive charging element associated with the device 102.

In some instances, the station controller 400 can communicate with amerchant access point 408 who may sponsor the charging station 103. Amerchant can subsidize charging of the device 102 for the chargingstation 103. In exchange, advertisements can be presented for display ona display unit (not shown) of the device 102 during charging. Theseadvertisements can be transmitted to a mobile device of the user of thedevice 102 as well. In other examples, a monetary amount can be accruedfor use of the charging station 103. The merchant can bill a user of thedevice 102 or the service provider 104. For example, when a user isusing the device 102 for transportation and needs a charge, the user canbe billed for use of the charging station 103. When the device 102autonomously navigates to the charging station 103, an owner of thedevice 102, such as the service provider 104, may be billed for the useof the charging station 103.

In another example use case, when the device 102 has a sufficient SoCfor the power source 115, but the device 102 is without a rider (couldbe temporary, for example, the rider stepped inside a building), thecontroller 114 can activate a power-saving mode and cause the device toautonomously navigate to a parking space to conserve the SoC. Thus, whena charging station is not present or is currently not needed, the device102 can park to conserve power.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example routing scenario where a transportationdevice can be directed to switch between various modes of operation.While some examples may reference functions performed by the device 102,aspects of these functions can also be performed by a service provider,and/or cooperatively between the device 102 and a service provider.

The device 102 can switch between a logistics mode routine 502 and amobility service or ride routine 504. When in the logistics (e.g.,package delivery) mode routine 502, the device 102 can depart a base orhome charging station 500 to pick up packages at step 506 and drop offthe packages at step 508. In more detail, the device 102 can receive arequest to deliver a package to a destination (could be directly from auser or through a service provider). The request can include anorigination address where the device 102 can be dispatched to pickup apackage. The device 102 can autonomously navigate to the originationaddress to receive the package. A user can place a package into thecontainer of the device 102. Once the package is received and thecontainer is secure, the package is delivered to a destination asillustrated in step 508.

If the device 102 determines that its SoC is low, the device canautonomously navigate to a charging station at step 507 and thenautonomously board a transportation vehicle for redistribution in step510. The device can charge on the transportation vehicle when thetransportation vehicle is so enabled. A passenger or rider is picked upat step 512 and drives the device 102 to a destination at step 514. Therider may have hailed the device 102 or requested the device through aservice provider. In one example, the rider could be a passenger thatwas on the bus that was used to redistribute the device to adestination. The rider could also include an individual in an area ofhigher demand as determined by a service provider. Thus, when the devicehas been redistributed to an area of higher demand, the rider can be anindividual that is in this area of higher demand.

After the rider exits at their destination, the device 102 can determineother users in the area have requested transportation and/or logisticsservice. If no user has requested the device 102 or the device has notbeen instructed by the service provider to relocated to another area,the device 102 can autonomously return a container or capsule used tostore packages in step 516. The container could be returned to theoriginal location where the package was received.

With respect to the mobility service or ride routine 504, the deviceautonomously navigates to pick up a requesting rider in step 518. Asnoted above, this can be based on demand as determined from a serviceprovider that receives requests from users. The service provider canalso determine user density in areas, which can indicate high demand.The rider can manually drive the device. However, the rider can alsoallow the device to autonomously navigate to a specified destination.

The rider then exits the device 102 at their destination at step 520.The device can determine if another user has requested transportationservices once the rider has been dropped off. Although, even if anothertransportation service request has been received, the device candetermine if it has sufficient charge to transport the rider to theirdestination. If the device does not have sufficient charge, the devicecan reject the transportation request and then autonomously navigate toanother charging station. The device may receive a request toredistribute from a service provider. Assuming no transportation and/orlogistics requests have been received in the area where the device hasbeen charging, the device can be picked up by a bus for redistributionin step 522. That is, if the device receives a request fortransportation services (either directly from a user through theirmobile device or from the service provider), the device can choose toreject a request for redistribution from the service provider.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an example method that can be performed by acontroller of a transportation device of the present disclosure. Themethod can include a step 602 of receiving a first message fromtransportation infrastructure that the transportation device is torelocate to a designated location based on user demand. Again, thismessage can originate with a service provider and be forwarded throughtransportation infrastructure, such as an IoT enabled infrastructureelement in a building.

The method can further include a step 604 of activating a redeploymentor redistribution mode to cause the transportation device toautonomously navigate to the designated location. Again, the device canbe configured to monitor its current location in real-time and utilizenavigation logic to determine a distance or path between the device andthe designated location.

The method a step 606 of determining that the designated location isbeyond a range distance. As noted above, this can include the controllermeasuring the distance or path between the device and the designatedlocation and calculating if a range of the device would allow it toreach the designated location while preserving at least a portion of itsSoC. Because the device is being redistributed based on demand, if thedevice were to arrive at the location with a depleted battery, thedevice would be of no use to riders.

If the designated location is too far away, the method can include astep 608 of causing the transportation device to autonomously navigateto a pick-up location. For example, the device can navigate to a busstop. Next, the method can include a step 610 of causing thetransportation device to autonomously navigate into a transportationvehicle at the pick-up location. As noted above, the bus can be IoTenabled, allowing the device and bus to communicate with one another.For example, the device can request entry to the bus. The transportationvehicle can transport the transportation device to a drop-off locationthat is in proximity to the designated location.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method performed by service providerof the present disclosure. The method can include a step 702 ofdetermining a demand for a transportation device in a designatedlocation. For example, the service provider can receive requests formobility services from mobile devices of users in a particulargeographical area. The service provider can also determine that thereare insufficient mobility devices available in this geographical area.Thus, once demand has been determined, the method can include a step 704of determining a lack of transportation devices in the designatedlocation for the demand. In some instances, each of the mobility devicescan report its location in real-time or near-real-time to the serviceprovider.

The method can include a step 706 of transmitting a first message to atransportation device through a transportation infrastructure. In someinstances, the first message indicates that the transportation device isto relocate to the designated location. The method can also include astep 708 of determining that the designated location is out of a rangedistance of the transportation device, as well as a step 710 ofdispatching a transportation vehicle to a pick-location when thedesignated location is beyond the range distance of the transportationdevice. Also, as noted above, the service provider can direct thetransportation device to enter various modes based on need. The serviceprovider can redirect the transportation device into a logistics mode, acharging mode, a parking mode, and other modes based on need.

Implementations of the systems, apparatuses, devices, and methodsdisclosed herein may comprise or utilize a special purpose orgeneral-purpose computer including computer hardware, such as, forexample, one or more processors and system memory, as discussed herein.Computer-executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions anddata which, when executed at a processor, cause a general-purposecomputer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing deviceto perform a certain function or group of functions. An implementationof the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein may communicateover a computer network. A “network” is defined as one or more datalinks that enable the transport of electronic data between computersystems and/or modules and/or other electronic devices.

Although the subject matter has been described in language specific tostructural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understoodthat the subject matter defined in the appended claims may notnecessarily limited to the described features or acts described above.Rather, the described features and acts are disclosed as example formsof implementing the claims.

While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been describedabove, it should be understood that they have been presented by way ofexample only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilledin the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be madetherein without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentdisclosure. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure shouldnot be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments butshould be defined only in accordance with the following claims and theirequivalents. The foregoing description has been presented for thepurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise formdisclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light ofthe above teaching. Further, it should be noted that any or all of theaforementioned alternate implementations may be used in any combinationdesired to form additional hybrid implementations of the presentdisclosure. For example, any of the functionality described with respectto a particular device or component may be performed by another deviceor component. Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,”“could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, orotherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intendedto convey that certain embodiments could include, while otherembodiments may not include, certain features, elements, and/or steps.Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply thatfeatures, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or moreembodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A transportation device comprising a controller,the controller comprising: a communications interface, thecommunications interface configured to provide vehicle-to-everythingcommunications; a device controller comprising: a processor; and amemory for storing instructions, the processor executing theinstructions to: receive a first message from a service provider thatthe transportation device is to relocate to a destination location basedon user demand; and activate a redistribution mode to cause thetransportation device to, autonomously navigate to the destinationlocation.
 2. The transportation device according to claim 1, wherein thefirst message is transmitted through transportation infrastructure. 3.The transportation device according to claim 1, wherein the processor ofthe controller is configured to: determine that the designated locationis beyond a range distance; cause the transportation device toautonomously navigate to a pick-up location; and cause thetransportation device to autonomously navigate into a transportationvehicle at the pick-up location.
 4. The transportation device accordingto claim 1, wherein the processor of the controller is configured to:receive a second message that comprises a request to deliver an item toa delivery location; and activate a delivery mode to cause thetransportation device to autonomously navigate to the delivery location,wherein the processor is configured to communicate with anInternet-of-Things (IoT) infrastructure element during delivery of theobject.
 5. The transportation device according to claim 4, wherein theprocessor of the controller is configured to communicate with the IoTinfrastructure element to allow the transportation device to requestaccess to a secure or private area associated with the delivery locationduring delivery of the object.
 6. The transportation device according toclaim 1, further comprising a frame that is configured to allow a riderto utilize the transportation device and an object to be stored forautonomous delivery.
 7. The transportation device according to claim 1,wherein the processor of the controller is configured to: compare astate-of-charge (SoC) of a power source of the transportation device toa SoC threshold; and activate a charging mode to cause thetransportation device to autonomously navigate to a charging locationand dock with the charging location when the SoC is at or below a SoCthreshold.
 8. The transportation device according to claim 7, whereinthe processor of the controller is configured to activate a power-savingmode to cause the transportation device to autonomously navigate to aparking space to conserve the SoC.
 9. The transportation deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the processor of the controller isconfigured to activate a passenger carrying mode, the passenger carryingmode includes receiving instruction from a user device associated with apassenger.
 10. A method, comprising: receiving a first message fromtransportation infrastructure that a transportation device is torelocate to a designated location based on user demand; activating aredeployment mode to cause the transportation device to autonomouslynavigate to the designated location; determining that the designatedlocation is beyond a range distance; causing the transportation deviceto autonomously navigate to a pick-up location; and causing thetransportation device to autonomously navigate onto a transportationvehicle at the pick-up location for delivery to a drop-off location thatis in proximity to the designated location.
 11. The method according toclaim 10, further comprising: receiving a second message that comprisesa request to deliver an object to a delivery location; and activating adelivery mode to cause the transportation device to autonomouslynavigate to the delivery location, wherein when in the delivery mode,the transportation device communicates with an Internet-of-Things (IoT)infrastructure element.
 12. The method according to claim 10 furthercomprising: comparing a state-of-charge (SoC) of a power source of thetransportation device to a SoC threshold; and activating a charging modeto, cause the transportation device to autonomously navigate to acharging location and dock with the charging location, when the SoC isat or below a SoC threshold.
 13. The method according to claim 12,further comprising activating a power-saving mode to cause thetransportation device to autonomously navigate to a parking space toconserve the SoC.
 14. The method according to claim 10, furthercomprising activating a passenger carrying mode when a user interactswith the transportation device and requests a ride.
 15. A method,comprising: determining demand for a transportation device in adesignated location; determining a lack of transportation devices in thedesignated location for the demand; transmitting a first, message to atransportation device through a transportation infrastructure, the firstmessage indicating that the transportation device is to relocate to thedesignated location; determining that the designated location is out ofa range distance of the transportation device; and dispatching atransportation vehicle to a pick-location when the designated locationis beyond the range distance of the transportation device, thetransportation vehicle transporting the transportation device at thedesignated location.
 16. The method according to claim 15, furthercomprising: determining a lack of demand for the transportation devicefor passenger use; and transmitting a second message to thetransportation device that comprises a request to deliver an object to adelivery location, the transportation device activating a delivery modeto cause the transportation device to autonomously navigate to thedelivery location.
 17. The method according to claim 16, furthercomprising transmitting authentication credentials to the transportationdevice, the transportation device providing the authenticationcredentials to an Internet-of-Things (IoT) infrastructure element togain access to a secure or private location during delivery of anobject.
 18. The method according to claim 15, further comprisingtransmitting a passenger ridge request to the transportation device, thetransportation device activating a passenger carrying mode when a userinteracts with the transportation device.
 19. The method according toclaim 15, further comprising: comparing a state-of-charge (SoC) of apower source of the transportation device to a SoC threshold; andcausing the transportation device to activate a charging mode andcausing the transportation device to autonomously navigate to a charginglocation and dock with the charging location when the SoC is at or belowa SoC threshold.
 20. The method according to claim 19, furthercomprising causing the transportation device to activate a power-savingmode and causing the transportation device to autonomously navigate to aparking space to conserve the SoC.